The Best Chili Recipe

Learn how to make the best chili recipe with this easy-to-follow recipe and enjoy year-round topped with gooey melted cheese, sour cream, and green onions. This chili is not just a dish; it’s a comfort food that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or game day, its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation – With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master it.
• Rich Flavor – A blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a savory delight.
• Versatile Serving Options – Customize with your favorite toppings for a personal touch.
• Makes Great Leftovers – The flavors deepen after sitting, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family dinner or a party, this chili fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven – Ideal for simmering and browning ingredients evenly due to its thick walls.
• Slotted spoon – Helps remove cooked ingredients without excess grease or liquids.
• Cutting board – Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Sharp knife – Ensures precise cuts which makes preparation quicker and easier.

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

• 1 pound Turkey Bacon (chopped into small pieces)
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 medium onions (diced)

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Tomato & Bean Components

• 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (28 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans (drained, not rinsed)

Broth

• 2 cups broth (beef broth, bone broth, chicken, vegetable) plus more as needed

Optional Toppings

• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions
• Tabasco sauce

How to Make The Best Chili Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Add the chopped Turkey Bacon to a large Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Once sizzling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Cook low and slow while stirring occasionally until golden. Remove the lid and cook to your desired doneness. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked Turkey Bacon to paper towels and reserve 2 tablespoons of grease.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add 1 tablespoon of reserved Turkey Bacon grease back to the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, browning it while seasoning with salt and pepper. Once browned, transfer beef to a clean plate.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add the remaining tablespoon of Turkey Bacon grease to your pot over medium heat. Cook diced onions for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Sprinkle with salt, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and sugar. Mix well before adding tomato paste and cooking for another 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously. Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, then bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once simmering, return Turkey Bacon and ground beef to the pot. Stir in kidney beans along with 2-3 cups of low-sodium broth (your choice). Mix well until fully combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning as necessary with extra salt or spices. If it’s too thick, add additional broth until desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or Tabasco sauce if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Chili Recipe

Serving chili is all about enhancing its rich flavors and providing a hearty meal. Here are some great ideas to elevate your dining experience with The Best Chili Recipe.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheddar on top offers a deliciously gooey texture.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a crunchy, fresh contrast.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the spiciness of chili.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips add texture and make for great dipping.
• Rice – Serve over fluffy rice for a filling and satisfying meal.

Garnishes

• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices bring richness and healthy fats.
• Tabasco Sauce – For those who like it hot, a few dashes of Tabasco can spice things up!

How to Perfect The Best Chili Recipe

Perfecting your chili can take your dish from good to unforgettable. Here are some useful tips to enhance The Best Chili Recipe.

• Bold Seasoning – Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices like cayenne or smoked paprika to deepen flavor.
• Quality Meat – Use high-quality ground beef for better texture and flavor in your chili.
• Longer Simmering Time – Allowing the chili to simmer longer melds the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Ingredients – Use fresh herbs or vegetables whenever possible for enhanced taste and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with chili can create a balanced meal that satisfies every palate. Here are some top choices.

1. Cornbread – Sweet and fluffy, it’s perfect for soaking up extra chili sauce.
2. Rice – A simple side that absorbs the flavors well, keeping you full.
3. Coleslaw – Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with warm chili.
4. Grilled Veggies – Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection can offer a smoky flavor.
5. Baked Potatoes – A hearty option that complements the richness of the chili perfectly.
6. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread makes for an excellent dipping companion!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some to watch for:

• Using low-quality meat – Opt for fresh, high-quality ground beef or turkey to enhance flavor and texture.
• Overcooking the beans – Adding canned beans too early can lead to mushiness. Stir them in towards the end of cooking.
• Neglecting seasoning – Failing to taste as you cook can result in bland chili. Adjust spices and salt throughout the process.
• Using insufficient liquid – Ensure your chili has enough broth or liquid for the right consistency; too thick is not ideal.
• Skipping the simmering step – Allowing your chili to simmer melds flavors beautifully; rushing this step can result in a less flavorful dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Chili Recipe

• Freeze in sturdy containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating The Best Chili Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the chili in an oven-safe dish, and cover. Heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Chili Recipe:

How can I make The Best Chili Recipe spicier?

To add heat, incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference.

Can I use different meats?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or lamb works great as substitutes. Experiment with what you enjoy most.

What toppings pair well with The Best Chili Recipe?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, and tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

How do I thicken my chili?

If your chili is too thin, simmer it uncovered to reduce liquid or mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Final Thoughts

The Best Chili Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different meats, spices, and toppings to suit your taste. Enjoy it on its own or serve it at gatherings—it’s sure to impress!